Theresa May could trigger article 50, the formal process for leaving the European Union, as early as Tuesday if the Brexit bill passes late on Monday, government sources say. They will have to decide whether to accept a pair of amendments added by peers – on the rights of European Union citizens and granting parliament a meaningful vote at the end of the process. Rebel Conservative MPs have urged the Brexit secretary, David Davis, to give firm promises on both issues when he addresses the Commons. But two government sources told the Guardian that ministers have been told Tuesday or Wednesday next week are possible, if the legislation passes smoothly. The Financial Times reported that EU officials in Brussels had been told to expect article 50 to be triggered imminently.

Source: The Guardian March 10, 2017 20:43 UTC